Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree Lighting

The Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree Lighting is an iconic annual event in New York City that marks the beginning of the holiday season. This beloved tradition features the illumination of a massive Christmas tree in Rockefeller Plaza, accompanied by live performances and festive celebrations.

Quick facts

When is it?: Wednesday following Thanksgiving
Tagged as: Holiday celebration, New York City tradition
What’s the hashtag?: #RockCenterXMAS
When was it founded?: 1933
Who founded it?: Rockefeller Center

History of Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree Lighting

The tradition began in 1931 when construction workers at Rockefeller Center erected a small Christmas tree on the site. The first official tree lighting ceremony took place in 1933, and since then, it has grown into a nationally televised event attracting millions of viewers and visitors each year.

Timeline

1931: First unofficial tree erected by construction workers
1933: First official tree lighting ceremony
1951: First national television broadcast of the event
1966: First tree from outside the United States (Canada)
2007: LED lights introduced for energy efficiency

Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree Lighting Dates

Year	Month and Date	Day
2025	December 3	Wednesday
2026	December 2	Wednesday
2027	December 1	Wednesday
2028	November 29	Wednesday
2029	November 28	Wednesday
2030	December 4	Wednesday

Observed Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree Lighting

The Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree Lighting is observed annually on the Wednesday following Thanksgiving. This event draws thousands of spectators to Rockefeller Plaza and millions more who watch the live broadcast.

The ceremony typically begins in the early evening and features live performances by popular musicians and entertainers. As night falls, the anticipation builds until the moment when the tree’s lights are switched on, illuminating the plaza with thousands of twinkling lights.

After the lighting ceremony, the tree remains on display throughout the holiday season, serving as a festive centerpiece for visitors to Rockefeller Center and a symbol of holiday cheer in New York City.

Fun Facts About Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree Lighting

The tree is usually a Norway spruce, standing between 69 and 100 feet tall
Over 50,000 multi-colored LED lights are used to decorate the tree
The tree is topped with a Swarovski crystal star weighing approximately 900 pounds
After the holidays, the tree is milled into lumber for Habitat for Humanity projects
The tree is typically donated, often from someone’s private property in the northeastern United States

Quiz

In what year was the first official Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree Lighting ceremony held?
How many LED lights are typically used to decorate the tree?
What type of tree is usually selected for the Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree?
On which day of the week does the lighting ceremony typically take place?
What happens to the tree after the holiday season ends?

(Answers: 1. 1933, 2. Over 50,000, 3. Norway spruce, 4. Wednesday, 5. It is milled into lumber for Habitat for Humanity projects)

FAQs

How tall is the Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree?
The tree is typically between 69 and 100 feet tall, with some years featuring trees reaching up to 100 feet.

How long does the tree stay lit each day?
The tree is usually lit daily from 5 AM to midnight, with special 24-hour lighting on Christmas Day.

Can anyone submit their tree to be the Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree?
Yes, people can submit their trees for consideration, but the final selection is made by Rockefeller Center’s head gardener.

How is the star placed on top of such a tall tree?
A crane is used to hoist the star, which is then secured to a pipe inserted down the center of the tree.

Is there an admission fee to see the lit tree?
No, viewing the lit tree in Rockefeller Plaza is free and open to the public.

Importance of Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree Lighting

The Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree Lighting has become a symbol of the holiday season in New York City and across the United States. It represents hope, unity, and the spirit of giving that characterizes the Christmas season.

For many, the lighting ceremony marks the official start of the holiday festivities. It brings people together, both in person and through television broadcasts, creating a shared experience that transcends geographical boundaries.

The event also has significant economic importance for New York City, attracting tourists from around the world and boosting local businesses during the holiday shopping season.